Ukraine’s airborne forces have continued to operate in the skies above their country, despite assumptions by some that Russia would immediately establish air superiority in the early days of the February invasion.
Instead, Ukrainian pilots have continued to fly, much to the joy and morale of their people below.
In his nightly address on Telegram, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised the “defenders of the sky” for their actions.
He said: “Today, our air force has a good result – downed Kalibr missiles, an attack helicopter of the occupiers, drones.
“I want to thank all our defenders of the sky from the East air command.
“Well done, today and always. Each such result is a saved Ukrainian life, an opportunity not to be afraid for all our people.
“We will do everything so that Ukraine can fully defend its skies from Russian missiles and aircraft.
“This is one of the fundamental issues for our country. And, of course, we are grateful to all our partners who help with the answer to it.
“Helping Ukraine with air defence is the most literal, most obvious way to protect people from Russian terror.”
